March 27, 2009

Even During Hiring Freezes, Many Colleges Stick With Sustainability Plans

By SCOTT CARLSON

Michael J. O'Connor, the physical-plant director at Appalachian State University, is watching his staff shrink bit by bit. When people leave, he's not rehiring. "I'm not the kind of guy who likes to lay people off," he says, noting that the university faces a 7percent budget cut this year and may face deeper cuts next year.

There is one exception to his staffing plan, however. Despite the economic duress, he is conducting a national search for a sustainability director. The university

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